Targeting a specific process in pancreatic cancer to improve treatment outcomes

Macropinocytosis Inhibition as a Glutamine Mimetic Sensitization Strategy in Pancreatic Cancer

['FUNDING_R01'] · SANFORD BURNHAM PREBYS MEDICAL DISCOVERY INSTITUTE · NIH-10990805

This study is looking at how pancreatic cancer cells use a nutrient called glutamine and how blocking a specific process can make a treatment called DON work better, with the goal of finding new ways to help patients with pancreatic cancer.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorSANFORD BURNHAM PREBYS MEDICAL DISCOVERY INSTITUTE (nih funded)
Locations1 site (LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10990805 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how pancreatic cancer cells utilize glutamine and how inhibiting a process called macropinocytosis can enhance the effectiveness of a treatment using a compound known as DON. The study aims to understand the metabolic adaptations of cancer cells and how blocking certain pathways can make tumors more susceptible to therapy. By exploring the relationship between glutamine and asparagine in cancer cell survival, the researchers hope to develop a new strategy to combat pancreatic cancer. Patients may be involved in trials that test this innovative approach to treatment.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation are individuals diagnosed with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma who are seeking new treatment options.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of cancer or those who do not have pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for pancreatic cancer, potentially improving survival rates.

How similar studies have performed: While targeting metabolic pathways in cancer is a growing field, this specific approach of inhibiting macropinocytosis in pancreatic cancer is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.

Where this research is happening

LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.